Old Testament
1 Samuel 28:23
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He refused and said, "I won't eat." But his servants and the woman kept urging him until he gave in. He got up off the ground and sat on the bed.
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But he refused, and said, I will not eat. But his servants, together with the woman, compelled him; and he hearkened unto their voice. So he arose from the earth, and sat upon the bed.
What 1 Samuel 28:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, the king is in a vulnerable state, refusing to eat despite the pressure from those around him. His servants and the woman persistently encourage him, showing their concern for his well-being. Eventually, he gives in to their insistence, rising from the ground to sit on the bed. This scene highlights the struggle between personal will and the influence of others. It reflects how sometimes we resist help or nourishment, even when we need it most. The king's initial refusal symbolizes a deeper struggle, perhaps with despair or hopelessness. Yet, the support from those around him ultimately leads him to take a step towards recovery, even if it’s just sitting up. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of community and support in times of difficulty, illustrating how we can uplift one another when we feel down. It’s a powerful reminder that sometimes, we need others to help us take the first step toward healing or change, even when we resist at first.
How to apply 1 Samuel 28:23 to your life
When you feel overwhelmed, remember that it's okay to lean on others for support. Don't hesitate to accept help when it's offered, as it can lead to positive change. Surround yourself with people who encourage you to take care of yourself and make healthy choices. Together, you can overcome challenges more easily than alone. Embrace the strength of community in your life!
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samuel's story: Saul and the Medium at Endor (1 Samuel 28:3–25)
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Samuel
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 28:23
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 28:23 mean?
1 Samuel 28:23 depicts a moment of vulnerability for King Saul, who initially refuses to eat despite the urging of his servants and a woman. This reflects his struggle with despair and the importance of support from others during difficult times.
What is the significance of the king's refusal to eat in 1 Samuel 28:23?
The king's refusal to eat symbolizes his emotional and mental state, indicating a deeper struggle with hopelessness. His eventual acceptance of food shows the power of community support in helping individuals take steps toward recovery.
How does 1 Samuel 28:23 relate to the theme of community?
1 Samuel 28:23 emphasizes the importance of community by showing how the king's servants and the woman support him in his time of need. Their persistent encouragement ultimately leads him to take a step toward recovery.
What can we learn from 1 Samuel 28:23 about seeking help?
This verse teaches that it is okay to lean on others for support when feeling overwhelmed. Accepting help can lead to positive change and highlights the strength found in community during challenging times.
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